Improving private renting

How we live is changing. In England, nine million people now rent privately.

It’s not just students and young professionals anymore: more than a third of renting households are families with children, and half are older than 35.

With home ownership out of reach and social housing waiting lists ever-growing, private renting has become the only choice for millions of families. But with soaring costs, poor conditions and a lack of stability, renting has fast become the worst of all worlds.

What is the private rented sector?

If your home is owned, managed or let out by a private landlord then it’s privately rented. Your landlord could be an individual or a company. Sometimes, management companies or estate agents will manage and let out a property on behalf of the owner.

Unlike renting in the social housing sector, most private rental properties are let out at market rates, meaning they are likely to be more expensive. They’re also likely to be let out on short term contracts of 6-12 months, with the landlord able to evict a tenant with only two months’ notice.

The problems with the private rented sector

Since 2001, the proportion of homes rented privately has rocketed by 69%. But this surge in demand hasn’t been supported by the necessary changes to make renting safe, stable and affordable.

As the demand for rented accommodation grows, many people are priced out of decent homes and forced to accept properties in terrible conditions – just to keep a roof over their heads. Making private renting better is crucial to ensure everyone has a safe and affordable home to live in.

We believe we can fix private renting and improve the lives of millions of people in the UK. Will you join us?

As more and more households are forced into private renting, increased demand will put greater pressure on the rental market. This will push up prices and drive down conditions – leaving renters even worse off.

Shelter wants to see action to improve conditions; increase the stability of renting; make renting more affordable; and ensure that anyone who wants to rent, can.